Health Secretary Wes Streeting Accuses BMA of ‘Misleading’ Claims, Seeks Alternatives in GP Contract Negotiations
London – Health Secretary Wes Streeting has publicly accused the British Medical Association (BMA) of making “misleading” claims and labelled them “impossible” to negotiate with, as he moves to reduce the union’s influence over future GP contracts. The move comes amid ongoing tensions with the BMA over doctor strikes and contract negotiations, with Streeting indicating he will consult with other bodies, including the Royal College of GPs and the NHS Confederation, for the 2026-27 GP contract.
The escalating dispute centers on the BMA’s recent industrial action and its impact on the National Health Service (NHS). Streeting’s decision to bypass the BMA in contract talks signals a notable shift in the government’s approach to negotiating with the union, perhaps reshaping the future of primary care in England.This comes as NHS England boss, Sir Jim Mackey, urges the BMA to end strikes, particularly during the winter months when the NHS faces peak demand.
Dr Tom Dolphin, the BMA’s chair of council, criticized Streeting for publicizing his letter regarding the reduced BMA role, stating, “We would have much preferred the health secretary to contact the BMA privately and directly to seek de-escalation, rather than via the media. Governments do not get to decide their negotiating partners, and not should they.”
According to the BMA, 20,000 doctors are currently unable to progress their careers due to the ongoing standoff, lacking specialty training placements. Sir Jim Mackey estimates each strike costs the NHS £250m and forces prioritization of safe care. He has appealed to the BMA to avert further industrial action during the winter, emphasizing the critical need for NHS services during this period.
